Singapore sees increase in leptospirosis in dogs

The Singapore Agri- Food & Veterinary Authority (AVA) has seen an increase in the number of suspected leptospirosis cases in dogs being reported by veterinarians since late last year.

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While there were no animal cases reported in 2014, AVA received 2 notifications between September to December 2015, and 18 notifications to date in 2016.

Between 27 June to 14 July 2016, AVA has received 12 notifications associated with Sunny Heights Day Care Centre. AVA has since issued an isolation order on the day care centre prohibiting any dog from entering or leaving the premises without AVA’s authorization.

In addition, the day care centre is required to conduct a thorough cleaning and disinfection of the premises. National Environmental Association conducted an inspection on 12 July 2016 at Sunny Heights Dog Daycare Centre and its vicinity, including a licensed pet café, and did not detect any signs of rat activity. AVA has also taken environmental samples for leptospirosis testing. Investigations are ongoing.

Ministry of Health received about 20 to 30 reports of human cases of leptospirosis each year between 2012 and 2015. This year, 14 cases have so far been reported to MOH as of 13 July 2016. This included one human case whose family dog had previously attended Sunny Heights Day Care Centre.